This study provides a systematic review of photocatalytic fiber coating technology as a potential solution to challenges in the textile industry. An analysis of recent research (2020–2024) reveals significant developments in materials and methods. Traditional photocatalysts (TiO₂ and ZnO) are being enhanced through doping and nanostructure control, and novel materials such as graphene-based composites and metal-organic frameworks are emerging. Advanced coating technologies, such as plasma treatment, atomic layer deposition, and magnetron sputtering, have been introduced to improve coating uniformity and durability. Key trends include the development of multifunctional coatings that combine self-cleaning, antibacterial effects, ultraviolet (UV) protection, and superhydrophobic properties. Environmental sustainability is advancing through eco-friendly manufacturing processes, although concerns regarding nanoparticle safety persist. While applications are expanding into medical textiles, protective gear, and wastewater treatment, challenges remain in terms of mass production technology, cost-effectiveness, and long-term durability. Future research should focus on nanostructure control, the development of visible-light-active materials, the optimization of coating processes, and the investigation of environmental impacts. This review suggests that photocatalytic fiber coating technology can significantly contribute to sustainable textile industry development when these challenges are effectively addressed.

The electro-mechanical impedance (EMI) change in Piezoelectric (PZT) sensors embedded in steel-fiber-reinforced mortar (SFRM) was investigated to assess the material setting time. The EMI was continuously monitored for 12 h by the PZT sensor embedded in SFRM having fiber volume fraction of 0.5%, 1.5%, and 2.0%. The initial and final setting time of the SFRM were estimated using EMI signal change. The penetration resistance test, a conventional test method for the setting time of cement mortar, was also conducted. In the penetration resistance test, it was observed that the initial and the final setting time of SFRM accelerated as the volume fraction of the steel fiber increased. On the other hand, in the EMI sensing technique, the initial and the final setting time of the SFRM were consistent regardless of the fiber volume fraction.

Electromechanical impedance (EMI) sensing is typically applied to monitor the setting of fresh cement paste. In this study, an experimental test is conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of EMI sensing for monitoring the setting time of fresh cement paste. A square piezoelectric (PZT) patch was embedded in fresh cement paste and the EMI of PZT patch was continuously monitored for 12 h. The results demonstrate that EMI sensing provides significant signals during the first 12 h of the cement-setting process.

Pile installation has an environmental impact through its various processes ranging from raw material extraction to construction. In addition, the environmental performance, productivity, and cost of pile installation depend on the construction plan. Therefore, the chain of activities must be considered when analyzing the sustainability of pile installation. A rational construction plan must carefully examine the factors that affect the productivity and sustainability of pile installations. This study presents a method for evaluating eco-economic performance by analyzing the resource utilization and processes of PHC pile installation. First, a process modeling technique, wherein details are broken down to the work task level, based on energy consumption and resource cost, is proposed. Second, a simulation method that calculates the eco-economic performance of the PHC pile process and resources (e.g., equipment) is presented. Third, a quantitative comparison of durations, costs, and emissions resulting from simulation, estimation based on the CSPR (Construction Standard Production Rate) and IUC (Itemized Unit Cost), site contract, and actual construction is presented. The results reveal that the method effectively reflects the prediction of duration, cost, and carbon emissions generated in the real world during the construction planning stage.

This study presents a novel approach to assessing the setting time of concrete using the electro-mechanical impedance (EMI) sensing technique. The proposed method involves the continuous monitoring of EMI changes by embedding a piezoelectric (PZT) sensor directly in the concrete. A comparative analysis was conducted with the conventional penetration resistance test, which utilizes mortar samples extracted from the concrete. As a result of the experiment, the time deviation rate of the setting time was more than 10% in the penetration resistance test using the mortar sample extracted from the same concrete, whereas the time deviation rate of the setting time was up to 1.77% in the EMI sensing technique using the same concrete specimen. This highlights the effectiveness and potential of the EMI sensing technique for an improved evaluation of concrete setting time.

This study investigates the application of electro-mechanical impedance (EMI) sensing technology to evaluate the hardness of cosmetic creams. Traditional methods, like penetration resistance testing, can be intrusive and disrupt continuous monitoring by impacting internal structures. To overcome this limitation, a piezoelectric sensor is embedded in cosmetic creams to capture EMI signals. This experiment explores varying wax content levels in the creams, establishing correlations between conventional hardness values and EMI signals. The results demonstrate a positive relationship between wax content, hardness values, and the magnitude of EMI resonance peaks. This study emphasizes a robust correlation between established hardness metrics and EMI signals, showcasing the potential of non-destructive testing to drive advancements in cosmetic industry practices.